Mission of Transformation

Mission of Transformation
by Roberts Steven
ISBN 9789799920331 HC pp. 247
Published 2009
Suprindo Offset Printing-Indonesia

Mission of Transformation is Robert's second book. For those who have or have read the first, this book is an excellent addendum to his first.

If transformation is a mission, dignity of life is the design
When we try to show everything we show nothing

Who is Robert Steven and what message is he trying to convey? The answer is probably as complex as the man himself. The best way to describe Robert is to understand him, the best way to understand him is through his quotes and his life philosophy in general.

In my intuition I find myself
In myself I find freedom
In nature I find the rule
In the rule I find the wisdom

You don’t need to have ears
You don’t need to have eyes
For you can hear my unspoken silence
You can see the echo of my vision

When I break you down
I cannot undo my error
I cannot delete my mistake
But I can edit with my love…
(designing trees)

If I were a composer I would honor you with my love song
If I were just a poet I would write you the lyric of my soul
But I am just a Bonsai artist and, can only shape you with my life!

Obviously, all the textbook conventions for bonsai are derived from fundamental concepts of artistry and aesthetic principals of visual art. Among the aesthetic principals of visual art are: line; form; color; texture; composition; dimension; perspective; and balance.

A working understanding of these concepts will enable us to freely create and innovate without hesitation because we understand the essence of the art and what these conventions refer to. Furthermore, a solid understanding of horticultural theory and natural rules is very important to our ability to simulate natural phenomena in a convincing manner. (Excerpt from Behind the Rules)

Casuarina equisetifolia raft

Probably the best composition that encompasses Robert's vision for bonsai (in my opinion) is his Casuarina pictured above. Why is that? It doesn't look like a bonsai but a replication of what could be found/seen around the corner on any given road. So what is so special about this composition? I believe the following quote from his first book sums it up nicely!

On its root I firmly commit
In its trunk I keep my soul
Through its leaves I reflect my vision

The folks who understood "the man" and were moved by his first book, will see their bonsai education into the artistic and aesthetic part of bonsai further enhanced.

The book is laid out in 10 chapters:
Introduction
Bonsai and nature
Transformation
Designing
Aging
The principles of good bonsai design
Transformation studio
Critique
Gallery and finally
Chronicle of a Premna adventure

Introduction (excerpt)
Any shape or style of tree in nature is not miraculously formed; there are always horticultural clues behind the present form.

Three aspects form the style of a tree: the nature of the species; the condition where it grows; and the exterior influence.

To create a good bonsai there are three aspects to follow: artistic beauty; horticultural clues; and thematic messages.

Robert then leads us through the remaining chapters. The sequential flow of information between chapters is well done. The information is laid out in such a way that the information provided in any given chapter, becomes the foundation for subsequent information and chapters. The information presented is easily understood and, photographs are used to further enhance the intended message.

I am not one to reinvent the wheel. Probably the best way to provide insight into this book is to provide the following remarks from the Preface:

"Vision of My Soul" was a refreshing and unprecedented book explaining the design elements utilized for bonsai creation. It did not discuss the technical nor cultural aspects for bonsai which most other bonsai books cover.

Mission of Transformation continues on with his study of bonsai design and how it is utilized when creating specimens. The technical and horticultural aspects are not discussed here either, but Robert thoroughly explains the principles of good bonsai design and how they are applied when creating bonsai from both collected stock and nursery grown plant material. (William Valavanis)

Bonsai is the most backward looking art that I know of. In general, bonsai books never fail to teach tradition, but usually not even exactly how tradition is seen in Japan.

Robert Steven has totally broken away from this method of teaching. He does not really even mention tradition in his book, instead he gives great insights to those who are desperatetly trying to grasp what the artistic side of bonsai is all about...

What was started in his first book "Vision of My Soul" in describing artistic principles and aesthetic considerations is put into practice here in this book...

Following the old principle that states a picture is worth a thousand words, Robert uses a couple hundred of well chosen photographs to illustrate his words and beliefs. I dare say that this book will become a classic. It is a must for every advance student of bonsai. Beginners will profit vastly because they very soon will find out there are more than six bonsai forms... (Walter Pall)

The following addendum forms part of my review.

Bibliography: Robert's blog and book, Mission of Transformation

The Art of Bonsai Design

The Art of Bonsai Design
by Colin Lewis
ISBN 1402700709 HC pp.160
Published 2001
Sterling Publishing Co, Inc.

This book is out of print but several avenues exist where one can acquire this work second hand. I acquired a used copy that was in excellent shape (slight wear on jacket) at a fraction of the original cost.

As the title evokes this book is about the artistic side of bonsai. It is not a primer and although intended for all audiences, newly introduced enthusiast should have a basic foundation in place to fully grasp the information imparted by Colin.

The book is broken down into four main sections:

- Elms;
- Junipers;
- Pines; and
- Larches.

A great review was previously carried out on this book. Although I fully intended in providing an in depth look into this volume, it would have paled in comparison with this review.

Bonsai Wonders is about my fascination with Bonsai, but more important to me is sharing information with fellow enthusiast. In doing so, I feel no need to re-invent the wheel so to speak. If good information can be found elsewhere, I have no reservations in pointing this out on this site.

Bonsai School

Bonsai School
by Craig Coussins
ISBN1402703686 HC pp.256
Published 2003
Sterling Publishing Co, Inc

Each part of Bonsai School examines the techniques required to create a bonsai in depth. Part one and thus, the two opening chapters explain the history of the art of miniaturizing trees. Craig has worked closely with Bonsai Historian Robert Baran to tell the true history of bonsai, thereby clearing up some of the myths and misinformation that are occasionally put forward.

Part two consists of four chapters that together form a structured course in how to create a bonsai, covering popular methods and techniques, as well as trees suitable for bonsai culture.

The third part of the book builds on an explanation of bonsai techniques and styles with a series of photo essays that systematically cover many bonsai-creating techniques. The fourth part of the book explores those areas of interest that are associated with bonsai, namely suiseki, Chinese viewing stones, pots and tools.

The book is well illustrated and contains a good section on tree selection for bonsai, other than that it is a bit disappointing. The section on pest and diseases is shallow in my opinion. The emphasis of the book seems to be placed on going “gaga” with the historical inspiration and pretty pictures. It does have a good section on styling techniques by Michael Persianno and Bill Valavanis, in the meantime it leaves the reader flat. I awaited this book with great anticipation after reading about it on Craig’s site. Totally Bonsai by the same author will provide more to the novice than Bonsai School in my opinion. A good read which belongs on the coffee table vice a reference library.

Complete book of Bonsai

Complete book of Bonsai
by Harry Tomlinson
ISBN 1558591184 HC pp.224
Published 1990
Abbeville Press

Harry Tomlinson is one of Europe’s leading bonsai artists and instructors. He has practiced and studied the principles for over thirty years and is a recognized authority on the subject.

With so many books out there, the vast majority being repetitive, it was indeed refreshing to find one with a unique blend of information and ideas. Not unlike other good books, I found the description on the origins, development of bonsai and it’s underlying principles clearly explained. It contains an in depth section on how to create a bonsai from seedling, cutting or nursery stock. Clear step-by step instructions take you from the initial raw material through to the finished bonsai. All the tools and techniques are clearly illustrated and explained. Their use is described in full detail. I found the section on containers extremely informative. Although brief, the attention to details in this short section is commensurate with the rest of the book. As most artist, the choice of the right pot is often difficult, this is especially true when one has developed a world class bonsai, where the pot becomes an integral part of the composition/illusion. This book contains a good explanation on suitability and use of each, unlike other manuals that seem to give the reader a mere cursory or general overview on containers

The heart of this book is a photographic catalog of bonsai trees and shrubs, providing the cultivation and styling details of over 100 different species. The end of the book encompasses a compendium of over 300 trees and shrubs that can be developed as bonsai including individual growing requirements and needs. This hardcover full colour book make it a worthwhile investment.

The art of Natural Bonsai Replicating natures beauty

The art of Natural Bonsai
Replicating natures beauty
by Dave Joyce
ISBN 1402700555 HC pp.288
Published 2003
Sterling Publishing Co, inc.

I somehow ordered this book by mistake, one I am glad I made. This hard covered book is an absolute gem. I like Dave’s naturalistic approach to bonsai design. The book is well laid out and explained. It has one of the best sections on pests and diseases that I have seen. It is quite explicit with detailed recommended remedies and procedures, listed in a chart where Dave prioritizes his approach to differing ailments.

The book contains the usual basics at the beginning and goes into greater detail as the text evolves. It has recommended species for beginners. The middle of the book covers the design and shaping process of several of his trees, along with timelines between stages, the latter is a good reference for beginners, as they can chart the process. The book also contains a section on making cement slabs, pots and rocks. The end of the book contains an extensive list on trees and their individual needs. This full-coloured book is indeed inspirational, and wears its title well.

Vision of My Soul

Vision of My Soul
By Robert Steven
Edited by Andy Rutledge
ISBN 9799920302 HC pp166
Published 2005
Suprindo Offset Printing

I finally received my copy of Robert's work as a birthday present. I believe only one word truly describes this work "powerful".

"On its root I firmly commit
In its trunk I keep my soul
Through its leaves, I reflect my vision..."

This masterpiece is a limited edition print signed by the artist. The attention to detail from beginning to end is phenomenal. The layout and thoughtfulness of its creation is second to none: from the handcrafted cover with silver leaf inlay; plethora of sketches and colour plates; to the easily understood artistic impressions conveyed by the author; this book was described in another review as a work of art and I can only echo the sentiments of that particular review. The combination of these two aspects makes this book extremely valuable in my opinion.

Works without soul, are mere objects on, or of any given medium. Understanding the basics towards an end is a great foundation in assisting the individual reach his/her goal. If the individual fails to portray the passion from deep within, and merely designing from the mind instead of the soul, then he/she is just creating "something".

True passion is not a mechanical process but one that evokes response. I guess other folks call this talent, but one can have talent without evoking passion, the true artist has both in my opinion.

I was fortunate enough to have acquired Robert's book and I am looking forward to the publishing of his second. No amount of reviews can accurately describe the contents of his work, nor convey the message held within. Although a book is classified as "literature" this volume is anything but, it is in a sense a work of art. Why? Because the book has the ability to move you. The author has managed to evoke deep seeded passions in the written word that, in my opinion, others fail miserably to achieve, art is felt not seen.

In closing for those who naturally possess artistic impressionistic talents, this work may well be of little value. However, for the multitudes that are struggling with the aforementioned required elements in Bonsai, it is a much-needed reference to one's literary collection.

Bonsai techniques Vol II

Bonsai techniques Vol II
by John Yoshio Naka
ISBN 093042233 pp 442

Bonsai techniques Vol II is more or less on advanced “bonsai techniques” and as such is not for beginners, I purchased mine at the same time as Vol I. Although, my apprenticeship is far from being at the level to apply advance techniques listed in this book, I found it extremely inspiring and educational. One thing it has taught me since I have read the book, was to seek inspiration from nature, find an appropriate tree (raw material) and duplicate the inspiration. John had a saying; don’t make your tree look like a bonsai, make your bonsai look like a tree. Walter Pall is famous to some extent for this exact approach. Considered a “rebel” in the beginning, Walter’s battle gained credence for his work. His innovative approach to the art has forged a way for the future. This is also the direction I intend taking in the future. I will no doubt meet allot of controversy during my journey, but at least learned veterans of the likes of Walter and many others have paved my chosen path. To the true “traditionalist” well! Walter’s work is totally unacceptable.

This book goes into great details with regards to grafting whether grafting roots or branches. Detailed descriptions on each are available; it goes on further to explain which method gives a greater chance of success depending on the tree species. The book then naturally flows to the trunk, branches and apex. This is where John goes into great detail with regards to the fundamentals of branch placement, height ratios etc. No serious Bonsai Artist would be without them.